NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF MIDLAND
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Rick Leaney spent more than three decades with the Town of Midland, many of those years spent as Harbour Master in Midland Harbour.
To recognize his dedication to Midland and all of his contributions over the years, a street was named in his honour today. The roadway that stretches between the Midland Harbour Office and the restaurant will now be known as Rick Leaney Way.
“For many years Mr. Leaney was the familiar face that greeted boaters and visitors to Midland Harbour, in addition to helping guide the large ships into port,” said Mayor Stewart Strathearn.
“His 35 years as Harbour Master was not his only contribution to our great town. Mr. Leaney was also one of the town’s biggest promoters, being a mainstay at the Midland booth at the Toronto International Boat Show for 25 years. That in itself is worth honouring, but his dedication went to further lengths than that, and so today the Town was proud to unveil Rick Leaney Way to thank him for all he has done and continues to do for the Town of Midland.”
For decades, Rick was the face of the harbour and assisted not only transient boaters, but the Canadian Coast Guard, Canadian naval ships, Tall Ships and cruise ships. In addition to his love of promoting the town at the boat show each year, Rick also created the Kid’s Fishing Derby, an annual event that gives local children the chance to win prizes for catching fish in the harbour.
“I had the pleasure of working with Rick for over 25 plus years, and witnessed first hand the dedication he had for his work and for Midland,” said Bryan MacKell, former Director of Planning, Economic Development and Harbour Committee Administrator. “I can’t think of anyone who walked this stretch of road more in the course of his time as dedicated Harbour Master and town ambassador, ensuring visitors were greeted and taken care of, and it’s fitting that it will now be known as Rick Leaney Way.”
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